02' tl -s 270+k.i bought this car used and don't have any records for it so i don't know if it was ever changed or is near change. .is there an easy visual inspection for the timing belts that i don't have to go taking everything apart? or is this the norm?..any other ways to tell if the belt(s) need replacing ie,,sounds,performance issues,etc?..thanks.

 

You are in the same boat as everyone else that buys a used car without records. You just don't know.

But, considering the 105k mile service interval for the timing belt/waterpump and associated tensioners/pulleys,etc, I think it is safe to assume that the previous owner DID NOT do the service at/or around 210k miles as it should have been done.

That would mean you should expect to do the service ASAP.

My own 2001 TL is at 231k miles and I actually have all the records. The timing service was done at 114k miles, with no record of a second service done, so there is no question, I am due.

In my case I know it was elderly driven, as evidenced in a number of ways (lets put it this way, the VTEC feature actually didn't actuate properly for the first few WOT accelerations I did after I changed the oil for the first time, so I know it was was probably never stressed it's whole life). So no real stress or racing or anything else that would lead me to believe that things could be compromised, but regardless I am going to be doing the service ASAP.

 

I agree with DP01TL!

the first timing belt change was most likely done...however, you have surpassed the 2nd time in mileage..
there's no way of telling besides having records... I suppose one could look at the timing belt cover to see if it was mangled up. but that wouldnt tell you if it was most recently serviced or if it was done the very first time

 

I also bought mine used, but from a relative that was the original owner. She was very meticulous about record keeping. The timing belt, idlers, etc, where all changed at 110K, I'm at 230K now. So I'm due. However, you can take off the belt cover, it's just a few bolts and have a look at your belt. I did when I replaced my VC gaskets. It looked good.

Since I'm retired and I have other vehicles, the TL only sees around 200 miles a month (or less). Since my trans is on the fence (ok for now), I plan to hold off until it goes.

There's a small plug in the belt cover. It's to allow seeing the belt timing marks. I was not able to see enough of the belt. There's just a few bolts holding it on (I think 4). You can then rotate the crank by hand to inspect it full length.

 

Bought my 2003 tl - S 6 and 1/2 years ago. 130000 on it. So I took it in at 145000 and had the belt / water pump/ done. Independent Acura garage. Was around 600 for this and valve adj. Recommended valve adj. is 150000. Ran better but found out the timing belt had been replaced. The garage kept it for me. Looked brand new. Better safe than sorry. If it breaks-your (%(*&%(